Raynors 2020-05 Putnal
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/30/2020
GRIFFITH, Richard (1814-1862) was a brigadier general in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. He was mortally wounded at the Battle of Savage's Station during the 1862 Peninsula Campaign. He was one of a number of Confederate generals who were born in the North in Pennsylvania. On June 29, 1862, Griffith and his men were pursuing Union soldiers retreating from positions on the Nine Mile Road when they encountered elements of Maj. Gen. Edwin V. Sumner's II Corps near Savage's Station, who were guarding the Union forces' retreat. In heavy artillery fire, Griffith was wounded in his thigh by a shell fragment. When he was informed that he was fatally wounded, it is reported that General Griffith said, "If only I could have led my brigade through this battle, I would have died satisfied." Griffith was taken to Richmond, but succumbed to his wounds the same day. War-date Confederate generals Autograph Letter Signed "Rich Griffith" 4pp. quarto, Camp Near Sangeter's X Roads, Virginia, August 18, 1861, and reads in part: "...I am now in Genl. Ewell's Brigade; and now posted in advance on the extreme right of the column, though still distant about 15 miles from Alexandria...Since I wrote you last in company with Gen. Ewell and other prominent officers, I rode over the battle ground of 21st July from the point where the enemy entered to where he operated & the way of his retreat and total route. It is still a sad scene to witness in a beautiful looking country. And after viewing all, I am unable to perceived how the battle was won by our troops on such open grounds against fearful odds, unless success be attributed mostly to individual prowess and indomitable courage. God Almighty must have been on our side, and directed our missiles of death and turned aside those of the enemy for they evidently had the advantage in ground, arms, munitions of war & number of men. ...My command is exceedingly anxious to meet the Yankees. Perhaps they will not have the same feeling after one severe contest. My General I am much pleased with and the more I see of him the better I like him. His appearance is that of a rough frontier soldier, but kind and humane. His actions indicate that he has entire confidence in this regiment giving us the right of his Brigade. I am in his company often and take frequent rides with him and his staff at his own request, frequently advised and consults with me in regard to his moves and measures, encampments, positions and operations.... Place no reliance upon telegraphs from the enemy unless well authenticated from other sources. Today my men have been much excited by some pickets having been driven in from a few miles beyond us. In consequence I threw some out and forward of my own and you would be astonished to see with what alacrity they volunteered for the service, all wanting to be the first...We will be in want of winter clothing much. The Confederate States will be unable to supply us...Each state may have to furnish its own troops...if so the ladies - wives - mothers - sisters and daughters must furnish them or the soldiers will suffer of their want. Our women can do more for the protection & comfort of the soldier than our Legislators and Governments...We have had a large number of measles cases, perhaps about 300 altogether, nearly all now convalescent. Buried 4 at our last camping place & may have to bury some more there..." Fine condition.
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